Wagering game with audio game cues

ABSTRACT

A computerized wagering game system has a gaming module and an audio module. The gaming module comprises a processor and gaming code which is operable when executed on the processor to conduct a wagering game on which monetary value can be wagered; and the audio module is operable to generate sounds to be played through one or more speakers, where the sounds are configured to indicate a change in game rules. In a further embodiment, the sound played indicates a change in at least one of odds of winning, award for winning, or eligibility for a bonus, or indicates accumulation or opportunity to accumulate a game element as part of an ongoing or long-term game. In other embodiments, the sound indicating a change in game rules is presented independent of changes between normal game play and bonus round game play, and is consistent with a theme of the wagering game.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority under 35 U.S.C. 119(e) from U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 60/681,812 filed May 17, 2005, which application is incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The invention relates generally to computerized wagering game machines, and more specifically to audio game cues in a computerized wagering game.

LIMITED COPYRIGHT WAIVER

A portion of the disclosure of this patent document contains material to which the claim of copyright protection is made. The copyright owner has no objection to the facsimile reproduction by any person of the patent document or the patent disclosure, as it appears in the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office file or records, but reserves all other rights whatsoever. Copyright 2006, WMS Gaming, Inc.

BACKGROUND

Traditional mechanical wagering game machines such as slot machines have largely been replaced by computerized electronic wagering game systems, which are also rapidly being adopted to implement computerized versions of games that are traditionally played live such as poker and blackjack. These computerized games provide many benefits to the game owner and to the game player, including greater reliability than can be achieved with a mechanical game or human dealer, more variety, sound, and animation in presentation of a game, and a lower overall cost of production and management.

The elements of computerized wagering game systems are in many ways the same as the elements in the mechanical and table game counterparts in that they should be fair, they should provide sufficient feedback to the game player to make the game fun to play, and they should meet a variety of gaming regulations to ensure that both the machine owner and wagering game player are honest and fairly treated in implementing the game. Further, they must provide a gaming experience that is at least as attractive as the older mechanical gaming machine experience to the wagering game player, to ensure success in a competitive gaming market.

Computerized wagering games do not rely on the dealer or other game players to facilitate game play and to provide an entertaining game playing environment, but rely upon the presentation of the game and environment generated by the wagering game machine itself. Incorporation of audio and video features into wagering games to present the wagering game, to provide guidance or direction to the game player, and to enhance the environment presented are therefore important elements in the attractiveness and commercial success of a computerized wagering game system. It is not uncommon for audio voices to provide instruction and help, and to provide commentary on the wagering game being played. Music and environmental effects are also played through speakers in some wagering game systems to enhance or complement a theme of the wagering game. These sounds typically accompany video presentation of the wagering game on a screen, which itself often includes animation, video, and three-dimensional graphics as part of presentation of the wagering game.

But, such wagering games typically have simple tracks of sounds that are played during certain modes, such as attract mode, game play mode, or bonus mode, and don't vary the sound or audio effects presented during game play or during other modes or convey information except through audio presented at the same time as a visual indicator of some element of the game. This makes wagering games somewhat predictable in their presentation of music and other sound effects, resulting in a gaming experience that lacks the suspense or drama other forms of entertainment such as movies provide through use of audio.

It is therefore desirable to use audio to in a way indicating information regarding game play beyond simply indicating a result of a game event.

SUMMARY

One example embodiment of the invention comprises a computerized wagering game system having a gaming module and an audio module. The gaming module comprises a processor and gaming code which is operable when executed on the processor to conduct a wagering game on which monetary value can be wagered; and the audio module is operable to generate sounds to be played through one or more speakers, where the sounds are configured to indicate a change in game rules.

In a further embodiment, the sound played indicates a change in at least one of odds of winning, award for winning, or eligibility for a bonus, or indicates accumulation or opportunity to accumulate a game element as part of an ongoing or long-term game. In other embodiments, the sound indicating a change in game rules is presented independent of changes between normal game play and bonus round game play, and is consistent with a theme of the wagering game.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

FIG. 1 shows a computerized wagering game machine, as may be used to practice some example embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 2 shows a flowchart of a method of providing audio to indicate a change in game rules, consistent with some example embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram of a computerized wagering game system operable to play audio to indicate a change in game rules, consistent with some example embodiments of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In the following detailed description of example embodiments of the invention, reference is made to specific examples by way of drawings and illustrations. These examples are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the invention, and serve to illustrate how the invention may be applied to various purposes or embodiments. Other embodiments of the invention exist and are within the scope of the invention, and logical, mechanical, electrical, and other changes may be made without departing from the subject or scope of the present invention. Features or limitations of various embodiments of the invention described herein, however essential to the example embodiments in which they are incorporated, do not limit the invention as a whole, and any reference to the invention, its elements, operation, and application do not limit the invention as a whole but serve only to define these example embodiments. The following detailed description does not, therefore, limit the scope of the invention, which is defined only by the appended claims.

Various examples of the present invention presented here seek to provide the user with a more entertaining and more varied wagering game experience by using sound to indicate a change in wagering game rules. One example embodiment of the invention comprises a computerized wagering game system having a gaming module and an audio module, in which the gaming module comprises a processor and gaming code which is operable when executed on the processor to conduct a wagering game on which monetary value can be wagered. The audio module is operable to generate sounds to be played through one or more speakers, where the sounds are configured to indicate a change in game rules.

In further embodiments, the sound played to indicate a change in game rules indicates a change in at least one of odds of winning, award for winning, or eligibility for a bonus, or indicates accumulation or opportunity to accumulate a game element as part of an ongoing or long-term game. In other embodiments, the sound indicating a change in game rules is presented independent of changes between normal game play and bonus round game play, and is consistent with a theme of the wagering game.

FIG. 1 illustrates a computerized wagering game machine, as may be used to practice some embodiments of the present invention. The computerized gaming system shown generally at 100 is a video wagering game system, which displays information for at least one wagering game upon which monetary value can be wagered on video display 101. Video display 101 is in various embodiments a CRT display, a plasma display, an LCD display, a surface conducting electron emitter display, or any other type of display suitable for displaying electronically provided display information. Alternate embodiments of the invention will have other game indicators, such as mechanical reels instead of the video graphics reels shown at 102 that comprise a part of a video slot machine wagering game.

A wagering game is implemented using software within the wagering game system, such as through instructions stored on a machine-readable medium such as a hard disk drive or nonvolatile memory. In some further example embodiments, some or all of the software stored in the wagering game machine is encrypted or is verified using a hash algorithm or encryption algorithm to ensure its authenticity and to verify that it has not been altered. For example, in one embodiment the wagering game software is loaded from nonvolatile memory in a compact flash card, and a hash value is calculated or a digital signature is derived to confirm that the data stored on the compact flash card has not been altered. The game of chance implemented via the loaded software takes various forms in different wagering game machines, including such well-known wagering games as reel slots, video poker, blackjack, craps, roulette, or hold 'em games. The wagering game is played and controlled with inputs such as various buttons 103 or via a touchscreen overlay to video screen 101. In some alternate examples, other devices such as pull arm 104 used to initiate reel spin in this reel slot machine example are employed to provide other input interfaces to the game player.

Monetary value is typically wagered on the outcome of the games, such as with tokens, coins, bills, or cards that hold monetary value. The wagered value is conveyed to the machine through a changer 105 or a secure user identification module interface 106, and winnings are returned via the returned value card or through the coin tray 107. Sound is also provided through speakers 108, typically including audio indicators of game play, such as reel spins, awarding of credits (bang-ups), and environmental or other sound effects or music to provide entertainment consistent with a theme of the computerized wagering game. The wagering game system takes alternate forms in some embodiments of the invention, such as a portable wireless wagering game device or a user-supplied device operable to present a wagering game conducted on a server. In some further embodiments, the wagering game machine is coupled to a network, and is operable to use its network connection to receive wagering game data, track players and monetary value associated with a player, and to perform other such functions.

The speakers 108 and the display 101 are used in one example embodiment of the invention to provide information related to the wagering game to the game player, along with other information such as graphics or animation designed to entertain. The graphics are accompanied by sounds, such as to indicate a game activity like awarding of credits (credit bang-up), or winning a game event. Other sounds are environmental sounds intended to enhance the theme of the wagering game, such as frogs croaking, fishing reels casting, and boat motors running in a fishing-themed wagering game. Sounds in some embodiments change depending on the wagering game machine's mode, such as using one set of sounds in an attract mode designed to draw the attention of potential game players, another set of sounds during normal game play, and a third set of sounds during a bonus round.

In various embodiments of the present invention, the sounds are also used to indicate a change of rules within a particular mode, such as during regular game play. Returning to the fishing example, the sound of fish jumping in the water in one example will indicate that in addition to normal game winnings a player is eligible for bonus winnings or to eligible to play a bonus round. The sounds in a further embodiment are presented for limited periods of time at intermittent intervals during game play, so that the excitement of the game varies over time. Providing the wagering game player alternating periods of excitement or intensity with normal game play adds to the variety of the wagering game, and reduces game player fatigue or the possibility the wagering game player will be come bored with the game.

FIG. 2 is a flowchart of a method of practicing an example embodiment of the present invention, consistent with a Star Trek™ theme. At 201, the wagering game player is engaged in normal game play, such as in playing a slot machine game having a background, reel objects, and sound effects consistent with a Star Trek™ theme. At 202, a pinging sound is played repeatedly, indicating that the Enterprise is actively searching for other nearby space vessels. This sound also indicates to the wagering game player that the normal rules of the game have changed, and that the game player is now eligible to collect a bonus object upon winning. In a further embodiment, screen colors, the objects shown on the screen, or some other visual indication of a change in wagering game rules is also presented, to further identify the change in rules to the wagering game player.

Should the player win during the period of time in which the pinging sound indicates a bonus object is awarded in addition to normal game play winnings, the player collects a bonus object. In various embodiments, the bonus object is a captured or destroyed enemy ship, or a new world explored in the course of the Enterprise's voyages. Normal game play continues at 201 if a certain number of bonus objects are yet to be accumulated as determined at 203. Once sufficient bonus objects have been collected at 203, the player enters a bonus round at 204, and is eligible for bonus winnings, to advance in the wagering game, or other such bonus awards.

In a similar embodiment, a Lord of the Rings™—themed game operates according to the flowchart of FIG. 2, except that the bonus items are completion of a certain phase of an ongoing voyage, or accumulation of rings that can be used to collect bonus winnings. For example, a player may enter normal game play at 201, and hear ominous music to raise suspense and to indicate that the rules of the wagering game have changed at 202 such that certain actions completed while the ominous music is playing will result in the wagering game player receiving a ring. Receipt of a ring results in progression to the next environment in the ongoing adventure, and a single retained ring can be used during normal game play or during a bonus round to increase winnings or increase the odds of winning a particular wagering game event.

In embodiments where the game player accumulates rings and enters a bonus round at 204, the game player may use accumulated rings to become eligible for the bonus round, or may use the accumulated rings once in the bonus round to earn more plays, better odds, or other such benefits during the bonus round.

Presentation of sounds indicating a change in rules such as in these examples is in some embodiments presented at regular intervals, designed to create a wagering game experience having periods of excitement or suspense, followed by periods of rest or recovery. The change in presentation during the course of the game will result in a more dynamic and more interesting wagering game experience for the game player, and will reduce fatigue or boredom in playing the wagering game. In further embodiments, the sounds indicating a change in game rules are presented at times selected to be consistent with a progression through the game, such as when a player has made it from one planet or space port to the next in a Star Trek™ game, has crossed a geographic region in a Lord of the Rings™ game, or has completed a combat mission in a Top Gun™ game.

FIG. 3 shows a block diagram of a wagering game system, as may be used to practice various embodiments of the present invention. The wagering game system shown generally at 300 comprises a processor 301 and a memory 302 coupled by a bus 303. A touchscreen video display 304 or other video display provides visual indication of the wagering game to the game player, and one or more speakers 305 provide sound to the wagering game player to supplement the information provided by the video display 304. Nonvolatile storage such as hard disk drive 306, flash memory, or other such storage is used to store information such as program instructions and audio and video files, and is coupled to the processor and memory by the bus 303. A network connection 307 further couples the computerized wagering game system to one or more remote computerized systems, such as to a computerized network server operable to query the activity or status of the computerized wagering game system.

In operation, the wagering game's processor 301 loads program instructions from the hard disk drive 306 to the memory 302, and executes the instructions. The program includes instructions to conduct a wagering game upon which monetary value can be wagered, such as a video poker game, a reel slot game, or another such wagering game. The presentation of the game further features various sounds and graphical objects, which are loaded from the hard disk drive into memory and are presented to the wagering game player via the video display 304 and speaker 305 at the direction of the executing program.

The program also includes instructions to change the rules of the wagering game being played, and to indicate the change in rules via audio played through speaker 305. In a further embodiment, the change in rules is further indicated by a change in the video image presented through the video display 304. The rules change in various examples comprises a change in odds, a change in bonus, an opportunity to collect bonus items or other value, a change in payout, or another such change. The change occurs in various embodiments at times consistent with progression in the wagering game, such as after a certain level has been completed or after a certain number of game events have occurred, and in other embodiments is presented at regular intervals or at times selected for increased suspense or variety during wagering game play.

The change in rules, sound, and in some embodiments other accompanying changes will provide the wagering game player with a more varied game play experience than traditional wagering game systems present, and will be able to build suspense and excitement at certain times while allowing the wagering game player periods of rest or recovery by returning to normal game play. This variety is designed in some examples to reduce game player fatigue or boredom that may be experienced with other wagering game presentations that are less varied and more repetitive.

The examples presented here illustrate how a computerized wagering game system can use sound to indicate a change in rules for a computerized wagering game conducted on the computerized system. It further illustrates how a change in sound accompanied by a change in rules such as a change in bonus, odds, payout, or other such rule change can be used to increase the suspense of a wagering game, and reduce fatigue or boredom that might be experienced with games providing less variation during game play.

Although specific embodiments have been illustrated and described herein, it will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art that any arrangement which is calculated to achieve the same purpose may be substituted for the specific embodiments shown. This application is intended to cover any adaptations or variations of the example embodiments of the invention described herein. It is intended that this invention be limited only by the claims, and the full scope of equivalents thereof. 

1. A computerized wagering game system, comprising: a gaming module comprising a processor and gaming code which is operable when executed on the processor to conduct a wagering game on which monetary value can be wagered; and an audio module operable to generate sounds to be played through one or more speakers, the sounds configured to indicate a change in game rules.
 2. The computerized wagering game system of claim 1, wherein the change in game rules comprises a change in odds of winning.
 3. The computerized wagering game system of claim 1, wherein the change in game rules comprises a change in award for winning.
 4. The computerized wagering game system of claim 1, wherein the sound configured to indicate a change in game rules is a sound effect consistent with a theme of the wagering game.
 5. The computerized wagering game system of claim 1, wherein the sound indicating a change in game rules is presented independent of changes between normal game play and bonus round game play.
 6. The computerized wagering game system of claim 1, wherein the change in game rules comprises eligibility for a bonus.
 7. The computerized wagering game system of claim 1, wherein the change in game rules comprises eligibility to accumulate one or more game elements.
 8. A method of operating a computerized wagering game system, comprising: conducting a wagering game on which monetary value can be wagered; and generating sounds played through one or more speakers, the sounds configured to indicate a change in game rules.
 9. The method of operating a computerized wagering game system of claim 1, wherein the change in game rules comprises a change in odds of winning.
 10. The method of operating a computerized wagering game system of claim 1, wherein the change in game rules comprises a change in award for winning.
 11. The method of operating a computerized wagering game system of claim 1, wherein the change in game rules comprises eligibility for a bonus.
 12. The method of operating a computerized wagering game system of claim 1, wherein the change in game rules comprises eligibility to accumulate one or more game elements.
 13. The method of operating a computerized wagering game system of claim 1, wherein the sound configured to indicate a change in game rules is a sound effect consistent with a theme of the wagering game.
 14. The method of operating a computerized wagering game system of claim 1, wherein the sound indicating a change in game rules is presented independent of changes between normal game play and bonus round game play.
 15. A machine-readable medium with instructions stored thereon, the instructions when executed operable to cause a computerized wagering game system to: conduct a wagering game on which monetary value can be wagered; and generate sounds played through one or more speakers, the sounds configured to indicate a change in game rules.
 16. The machine-readable medium of claim 1, wherein the change in game rules comprises a change in at least one of odds of winning, award for winning, or eligibility for a bonus.
 17. The machine-readable medium of claim 1, wherein the change in game rules comprises eligibility to accumulate one or more game elements.
 18. The machine-readable medium of claim 1, wherein the sound configured to indicate a change in game rules is a sound effect consistent with a theme of the wagering game.
 19. The machine-readable medium of claim 1, wherein the sound indicating a change in game rules is presented independent of changes between normal game play and bonus round game play. 